英语文摘:China, Britain pledge to enhance military ties

BEIJING, July 5 (Xinhua) -- China and Britain on Monday pledged to enhance military ties.

The pledge came out of the meeting between Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission Guo Boxiong and visiting British Chief of Defense Staff Jock Stirrup.

The military relationship is an important component of China-Britain relations, and the two sides have witnessed frequent exchange of high-level visits and fruitful cooperation in many fields, Guo said.

He said China's armed forces attached importance to the friendly cooperation with the British armed forces, and would work with it to enhance mutual trust and expand cooperation.

Stirrup echoed Guo saying the military relationship was very important and the British side hoped to strengthen military cooperation with China.

The two sides also discussed the development of China-Britain relations and international and regional issues of common concern.

Highlighting the development of China-Britain relations in recent years, Guo said the bilateral relationship is at a new historic starting point. The two sides should respect each other's core concerns and properly handle disputes, so as to promote sound and stable development of the comprehensive strategic partnership.

Stirrup said Britain's new government attached importance to its relationship with China.